March 14, 2025: Be Reconciled to Your Brother

-

In Matthew 5:23-24, Jesus teaches, "If you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift."

Reconciliation is not an option in the Christian life—it is a necessity. True worship is not just about offering prayers and sacrifices; it is about living in harmony with others. Jesus makes it clear that our relationship with God is closely tied to our relationship with others.

The Weight of Unresolved Conflict

Many people carry the burden of unresolved conflict—family disputes, broken friendships, or misunderstandings that have lasted for years. We often justify our unwillingness to reconcile by saying, "It was their fault," or "I will forgive when they apologize." But Jesus calls us to take the first step, regardless of who was wrong.

I once met an elderly man who had not spoken to his brother for over 30 years. When asked why, he couldn’t even remember the reason. When he finally decided to reconcile, his brother wept and said, "I have been waiting for this day." Sometimes, pride keeps us apart, but love has the power to bring us back together.

The Power of Forgiveness

Reconciliation requires forgiveness. When we forgive, we are not saying that the hurt was insignificant, but we are choosing to release the burden of bitterness. Unforgiveness chains us to the past, but reconciliation sets us free.

Think of the story of Joseph and his brothers in Genesis. Despite being betrayed and sold into slavery, Joseph chose reconciliation over revenge. When his brothers feared punishment, Joseph reassured them, saying, "You meant evil against me, but God meant it for good" (Genesis 50:20). He saw God’s greater purpose and chose love over resentment.

Steps Toward Reconciliation

1.     Take the First Step – Don’t wait for the other person. Reach out in humility.

2.     Listen with an Open Heart – Sometimes, reconciliation starts with truly understanding the other person’s pain.

3.     Apologize Sincerely – Even if you feel you were not entirely at fault, acknowledge any hurt you may have caused.

4.     Forgive Freely – Holding onto anger only harms you. Let go and allow healing to take place.

5.     Seek Peace, Not Just Resolution – The goal is not to prove who was right, but to restore the relationship.

A Challenge for You

Is there someone in your life you need to reconcile with? A friend, a sibling, a coworker? Jesus teaches that reconciliation is more important than religious rituals. Before we seek God's presence in worship, we must seek peace with those around us.

Take the first step today. Love is stronger than pride, and reconciliation is the key to true peace.

"If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all." – Romans 12:18

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

March 7, 2025: What do we Need to Fast from in this Lent 2025?

-
Image
  As we enter the sacred season of Lent, we are reminded of Jesus’ response to the disciples of John when they asked why His disciples did not fast: “Then the disciples of John came to Him, saying, ‘Why do we and the Pharisees fast often, but Your disciples do not fast?’ And Jesus said to them, ‘Can the wedding guests mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them? The days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast.’” (Matthew 9:14-15) Lent is traditionally a time of fasting, prayer, and almsgiving—a season of drawing closer to Christ by letting go of distractions. But beyond fasting from food, what else might the Lord be calling us to fast from in this Lent of 2025? 1. Fasting from Negativity We live in a world saturated with criticism, fear, and doubt. Lent is a time to fast from negativity—complaints, gossip, and discouragement. Instead, let’s embrace words of encouragement and gratitude, spreading hope in a world that desperately need...
Read more

Humanity Beyond the Boundaries of Religion

-
Image
  Amidst the spiritual fervor of Kumbh Mela, where millions gather in faith, an act of love and compassion quietly unfolds. Nazareth Hospital, Prayagraj, St. Anthony’s Convent, Prayagraj (Canossian Sisters) and St. Mary’s Convent, Prayagraj (CJ Sisters) step forward, distributing food to pilgrims, serving humanity beyond the barriers of religious boundaries. In a world often divided by beliefs, this gesture stands as a powerful reminder that kindness knows no religion. It is a reflection of faith in action—caring for fellow human beings simply because they are hungry, tired, and in need of compassion. At Kumbh Mela, where faith is celebrated in myriad forms, Nazareth Hospital chooses to celebrate humanity. In doing so, it bridges divides, nurtures hope, and offers a powerful message: Love is the universal language that binds us all. This service is not merely about feeding the body but nourishing the soul—both of the giver and the receiver. It is faith translated into action,...
Read more

Is Jesus your Valentine?

-
Image
  As Valentine’s Day approaches, hearts, flowers, and love notes fill the air. But amidst the celebration of love, have you ever wondered—could Jesus be your Valentine? Valentine’s Day is about love, and who loves you more than Jesus? He laid down His life for you, loves you unconditionally, and is always by your side. His love is constant, never fading, and not dependent on how perfect you are. When earthly love falls short or feels distant, His love remains steadfast. When you feel unworthy, He calls you precious. When you feel alone, He reminds you, “I am with you always” (Matthew 28:20). This Valentine’s Day, as you celebrate love, remember the One who loved you first and loves you most. Will you let Jesus be your Valentine? Reflect on it. You might just find the truest love story of all.
Read more